Vitug Vlogs: Bam, Grace, Nancy – Children of privilege

MANILA, Philippines – Rappler’s editor at large Marites Vitug says a famous family name could win Senate seats, but two long-term solutions could reform this system.
Here’s her video blog.

Below is the script:

The newbies in the senatorial campaign have one thing in common: they come from well-known families.
Bam Aquino and Nancy Binay descend from political dynasties. Grace Poe, from show biz fame.
Each has his own saving grace.
Bam is a bright young man devoted to social entrepreneurship.
Nancy, whose claim to fame is being a personal assistant to her parents, exudes a common touch and campaigns on populist issues.
Grace showed her deft management skills running the MTRCB.
But the big question is: in a level playing field, would they even be considered as candidates for the Senate?
That is the heart of the issue.
In our political system, lesser known candidates with bigger accomplishments—but who are not born to privilege—suffer a disadvantage.
Two long-term solutions can correct this. 
One, strong political parties that flourish on issues, not personalities.
Two, amending the Constitution and making the senatorial race regional rather than national. 
This will encourage leaders from the cities and provinces to emerge. Campaign expenses will also be reduced.
This is Marites Vitug for VitugVlogs.

– Rappler.com

More from Rappler’s 2013 Philippine elections coverage:

• #PHvote with Bam Aquino
• Aquino, Poe gains in new survey
• Binay, Villar break into top 3 – SWS survey